The store closed March 25, and Ali said he expected to reopen sometime later this month, but didn't have a specific date when this issue of Skyway News went to press.

"It will be totally changed," Ali said. "There will be more vegetables, more fruits, more groceries, more everything."

Ali said he plans to add a fresh deli section and overhaul the store's interior.

Ali purchased the store from Kenneth Youngberg. The store's market value is listed as $115,000, according to Hennepin County property records.

Ali said he hadn't made up his mind about changing the store's name.

Community leaders consider Ali's plans to expand Kenny's a boon to the neighborhood. Much like residents in other Downtown neighborhoods, Elliot Park activists have been pushing for a grocery store.

Downtown is largely home to convenience stores with the exception of City Market in Loring Park, which has produce and fresh meat. The owners of the store are awaiting a judge's decision on whether they can remain tenants at their Hennepin Avenue store.

The store is at odds with its landlord, Laurel Village, over whether it properly renewed its lease.